Approved for All Ages

My Little Pony: The Movie

A dark force threatens Ponyville, and the Mane 6 embark on an unforgettable journey beyond Equestria where they meet new friends and exciting challenges on a quest to use the magic of friendship to save their home.
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Negative Rating
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SexLanguageViolenceDrugsNudityOther
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Positive Rating
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FaithIntegrity

Dove Review

The Mane 6 are at it again in this fantastical adventure! Twilight Sparkle (Tara Strong) is the Princess of Friendship, and is stressing over the land of Equestria’s annual Friendship Festival. Just when things seem to be coming along, Equestria finds itself invaded by an unexpected enemy: The Storm King (Liev Schreiber), and his right-hand gal Tempest (Emily Blunt) – a jaded pony who uses her magic for evil. Princess Twilight along with her pals Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Apple Jack, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy must go on a harrowing adventure beyond the comforts of home to defeat the Storm King and rescue their endangered friends.

This tale (or “tail,” pun intended!) is wholesome fun that both children and adults can enjoy. Having never seen My Little Pony the series, it’s easy to pick up on the characters and their unique personalities. Rarity is the vain one, who uses her magic to make everything beautiful. Rainbow Dash is rough and tough, but leaves a little brightness wherever she goes. It’s not hard to find at least one pony you identify with, and that diversity is admirable. No character ever feels overlooked or forgotten. As the story progresses, we see many valuable lessons, such as the value of choosing good friends, and what simple kindness can accomplish.

There is a lot of conflict, but it never outweighs the overwhelming message of unity and compassion. The ponies are faced with impossibly dark situations, but approach each problem with optimism and courage at every turn. At some point in the plot, the ponies learn that life is not always sunshine and rainbows. This critical conflict is a great teaching moment for viewers; we see how even though circumstances can get us down, anything can be conquered through unity.

There are moments of laughter, joy and even some real tension as these adorable ponies battle evil and, at times, themselves. Friendship is a central theme, and it is excellently carried throughout the story arc. Characters’ hearts are changed, unlikely friends are made, and redemption is plentiful. Musically, there are just enough songs to keep things moving and interesting, but not so much that it becomes overwhelming. The standout favorites were “Time to Be Awesome” and the “Songbird Serenade” at the end. The plot is an oldie but a goodie (friends go on an adventure to defeat evil), but it feels well thought out, interesting and very fitting for the franchise. Not only did My Little Pony: The Movie manage to deliver a colorful, entertaining adventure, but it also managed to deliver on heart, inspiration, and truth.

I’ll admit, my hopes were not high going into the theater…but by the end, I was a believer. Friendship really is magic! My Little Pony: The Movie reminds us that we can be broken, but still powerful and beautiful – with a little help from our friends. It exemplifies the power of unity and the hope of redemption. Dove is proud to award My Little Pony: The Movie the Dove Seal of Approval for All Ages.

Dove Rating Details

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Faith

None

0
Integrity

Cartoon action: sword fighting; punching and kicking; using magic to hurt others

1
Sex

Reference to a body part falling off

0
Language

"Booty" used once

1
Violence

Cartoon action: sword fighting; punching and kicking; using magic to hurt others

0
Drugs

None

0
Nudity

None

1
Other

Magic is used heavily throughout and discussed; mythological creatures

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